1. In providing counsel to the Governor on environmental policy matters, the council shall:

a. Advise the Governor on comprehensive environmental management policy for the state.

b. At the request of the Governor, provide an overview in both the public and private sector on matters affecting the environment, giving its judgment on specific matters referred to it.

c. Develop or cause to be developed guidelines for weighing the complex interrelationships between environmental quality, economic development, and the growing population associated with economic growth.

d. Study and from time to time report to the Governor on environmental conditions and trends in the state.

e. Recommend state environmental policies, including legislation for implementation thereof, to improve the functioning of the state and the environment of the state.

2. To assist in carrying out the aforementioned functions as provided in this section, the council may:

a. Request and shall receive from any court, department, division, board, bureau, commission or agency of the state or any political subdivision thereof, such assistance as will enable it properly to carry out its powers and duties under this section.

b. Make or recommend such special environmental studies as it deems appropriate or desirable.

c. Hold public and private hearings for specified purposes, take testimony, subpoena witnesses, and require production of books, records, and papers.

d. Report its findings to the Governor.